Watson-Crick model
noun
: a model of DNA structure in which the molecule is a cross-linked double-stranded helix, each strand is composed of alternating links of phosphate and deoxyribose, and the strands are cross-linked by pairs of purine and pyrimidine bases projecting inward from the deoxyribose sugars and joined by hydrogen bonds with adenine paired with thymine and with cytosine paired with guanine compare double helix
Word History
Etymology
J. D. Watson & F. H. C. Crick
First Known Use
1958, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of Watson-Crick model was
in 1958
Dictionary Entries Near Watson-Crick model
Cite this Entry
“Watson-Crick model.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Watson-Crick%20model. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.
Copy Citation
Medical Definition
Watson-Crick model
noun
: a model of DNA structure in which the molecule is a cross-linked double-stranded helix, each strand is composed of alternating links of phosphate and deoxyribose, and the strands are cross-linked by pairs of purine and pyrimidine bases projecting inward from the deoxyribose sugars and joined by hydrogen bonds with adenine paired with thymine and with cytosine paired with guanine compare double helix
More from Merriam-Webster on Watson-Crick model
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Watson-Crick model
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share